The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has rejected claims of a second Biafra declaration made in Finland, labeling it a “shambolic charade” designed to undermine the group’s legitimate struggle for sovereignty.
In a statement released on Sunday by IPOB’s spokesperson, Emma Powerful, the proscribed organization reaffirmed its commitment to restoring the Biafra declared by the late General Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu in 1967. The group dismissed the Finland event as a scam orchestrated by infiltrators seeking to destabilize the Southeast and delegitimize the movement.
IPOB’s Position
Emma Powerful stated that the mission of IPOB remains the restoration of the sovereignty declared in 1967 and dissolved after the Nigerian Civil War, which ended in genocide against Biafrans. He emphasized that no individual or group has the authority to issue a second declaration of Biafra, adding that the original declaration by Ojukwu remains valid.
“The so-called second declaration is a scam and has no bearing on the legitimate Biafra struggle. IPOB, under the leadership of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, is steadfast in its commitment to the restoration of the declared sovereignty of 1967,” the statement read.
Call for a Referendum
IPOB reiterated its call for a UN-supervised referendum as the legitimate pathway to achieving Biafran independence. The group appealed to the international community, Biafrans at home and abroad, and allies of the movement to disregard the Finland event, describing it as a distraction orchestrated by elements seeking to divide the Southeast and tarnish IPOB’s reputation.
Accusations Against Finland-Based Faction
The group accused those behind the Finland event of being sponsors of insecurity in the Southeast, with the aim of making the region ungovernable and discrediting the Biafran cause. According to IPOB, these individuals have consistently failed in their attempts to infiltrate and destroy the movement.
“Those involved in the Finland event have no mandate to speak for Biafrans. Their agenda is to destabilize the Southeast, divide the people, and divert attention from our legitimate struggle. We are glad that responsible media organizations and bloggers have largely ignored their antics,” Emma Powerful said.
Appeal to Media and Supporters
The statement commended reputable media organizations and social media platforms that refrained from amplifying the Finland event. IPOB urged its supporters to remain focused and vigilant, warning against distractions that could undermine their quest for sovereignty.
Conclusion
IPOB reaffirmed its dedication to the peaceful restoration of Biafra, rejecting any alternative declarations or agendas that could harm the movement’s credibility. The group called on all stakeholders to prioritize unity and work together to achieve its goal of independence through lawful and internationally recognized means.
This development comes amidst ongoing tensions in the Southeast and IPOB’s persistent advocacy for a referendum to resolve the Biafra question.
